The White House is defending President Trump’s use of the term “piggy” to describe Bloomberg reporter Catherine Lucey during a recent exchange aboard Air Force One. The incident occurred after Lucey pressed the President for answers regarding the Jeffrey Epstein files, following a previous statement about a “very bad relationship” with the convicted sex offender.
According to witnesses, Trump abruptly silenced Lucey with the derogatory term, repeatedly pointing at her before turning to another reporter. The moment unfolded as Lucey attempted a follow-up question, prompting a visibly frustrated response from the President.
Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt characterized Trump’s behavior as simply “frank and honest,” a trait she suggested contributed to his re-election. She asserted that the President openly challenges what he perceives as “fake news” and expresses frustration with reporting he deems inaccurate.
Leavitt further claimed Trump is the “most transparent president in history,” emphasizing the unprecedented access reporters have to the Oval Office. She urged the press corps to appreciate the President’s directness, suggesting it’s a benefit they receive “on a near daily basis.”
This wasn’t an isolated incident involving Lucey. Previously, Trump had dismissed her questioning, stating, “You are the worst! You’re with Bloomberg, right? You are the worst! I don’t know why they even have you.” The exchange highlighted a pattern of direct, and often critical, interactions with the reporter.
Bloomberg News defended its White House journalists, stating they provide a “vital public service” by asking questions “without fear or favour.” The organization reaffirmed its commitment to fair and accurate reporting on matters of public interest.
Republican Congresswoman Maria Elvira Salazar also offered support for the President, describing him as “picturesque” and a “different type of politician.” She emphasized focusing on Trump’s policies rather than his personality, acknowledging that “no one is perfect.”
A White House spokesperson further defended Trump’s actions, alleging Lucey had behaved “inappropriately and unprofessional way towards her colleagues on the plane.” The statement suggested a reciprocal expectation: “If you’re going to give it, you have to be able to take.”
The incident comes amidst heightened scrutiny regarding the Epstein files, with Trump recently signing legislation compelling the release of those documents after initial resistance. He also recently called for the revocation of an ABC broadcast license and disparaged another reporter as “terrible” for pursuing questions about the Epstein case and his family’s business dealings.
